Nebraska Renters: What To Do If Locked Out by Your Landlord

If you’re a tenant in Nebraska and suddenly find yourself locked out of your rental home or apartment, it’s stressful and confusing. This guide is designed to help you understand your rights, the steps you should take, and what the law says about landlord lockouts in Nebraska. We’ll also provide official resources and contacts so you can get support quickly if you need it.

Your Rights as a Renter: Lockouts and Nebraska Law

Nebraska law strictly prohibits landlords from locking out tenants without following a formal legal process. If your landlord locks you out, removes doors or windows, or shuts off your utilities to force you to move, this is known as a "self-help eviction"—and it’s illegal in Nebraska.

• Your landlord must file for eviction through the court and cannot remove or exclude you from the property without a court order.
• Changing locks, padlocking doors, or removing your belongings without legal process is not allowed.

The main legislation covering these rights is the Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Steps To Take If You Are Locked Out

If you find yourself locked out, here are the most important steps to take:

• Document the situation: Take photos or video of the locked door, notes on the property, or evidence of changed locks.
• Contact your landlord: Try to reach your landlord (phone, email, text) and ask for immediate access. Keep all communications in writing if possible.
• Do not attempt to break in: Gaining entry by force can put you at risk of legal trouble.
• If safe and necessary, call local law enforcement on the non-emergency line for assistance—they may be able to help restore access or document the lockout.
• If you cannot resolve the issue, you may have legal remedies such as filing a court action for unlawful exclusion.

The county court in your area is the official body that handles disputes between landlords and tenants. For Nebraska, see the official Nebraska County Courts directory.^[2]

Filing a Complaint: Official Forms and How They Work

• Complaint for Immediate Return of Possession (Unlawful Lockout): Nebraska does not have a specific statewide form number. Each county may have its own court-approved complaint form. This is used when a tenant is unlawfully excluded from the rental property.
• Complaint for Restitution of Premises (Form CC 6:5): Used to initiate a court action to regain possession of your rental unit.

When to Use: If you cannot regain access after contacting your landlord, complete the proper form and file it with your county court. The court may grant you an order requiring the landlord to let you back in.

Emergency Assistance and Safety Concerns

• If you’re locked out and have urgent safety, health, or medical needs, call 911 or your local emergency services.
• The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services can connect you with emergency housing resources.

Landlord lockouts are not permitted even if you owe rent. The legal eviction process in Nebraska requires formal court procedures, a judgment, and a sheriff’s involvement for removal—never just a lock change by the landlord.

Your Remedies if Lockout Occurs

• File a complaint immediately with your local county court to seek reinstatement and possibly damages.
• Request emergency access through law enforcement if you have urgent personal belongings or safety needs inside.
• Keep all receipts or documentation if you incur costs due to the lockout (hotel, meals, etc.)—you may be able to recover these through court action.

If your landlord locks you out, cooperate with legal authorities and use official procedures to regain access.

FAQs: Nebraska Lockout Laws for Renters

1. Can my landlord change the locks on my apartment in Nebraska?
   No, your landlord cannot change the locks or remove you from the property without a court order. This is illegal self-help eviction.
2. What should I do first if I’m locked out?
   Document the lockout, try to contact your landlord, and seek help from local law enforcement if necessary. If the issue isn’t resolved, contact your county court to file a complaint.
3. Can the police help me get back into my rental unit?
   Police can intervene if your exclusion is illegal, help ensure there’s no breach of peace, and document the situation. They cannot adjudicate tenancy disputes but may be able to facilitate access and prevent escalation.
4. Where do I file a complaint about an unlawful lockout?
   You should file with your local county court, using a complaint form if available. Check the Nebraska County Courts directory for contact info.
5. Am I responsible for paying rent during a lockout?
   Yes, unless a court decides otherwise, your lease obligations continue until officially terminated. However, you can seek damages for the landlord’s illegal exclusion.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

• Landlords in Nebraska cannot legally lock you out without a court order—self-help evictions are prohibited.
• If locked out, document everything, contact your landlord, and use the official court process to reclaim access.
• Get legal help or call authorities if your safety, health, or essential belongings are at risk.

Knowing your rights helps protect you and ensures a fair process for everyone involved in a rental agreement.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska County Courts – Find your local court to file complaints, get forms, and seek help
• Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Housing Assistance
• Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – Guidance on landlord-tenant rights and disputes
• Legal Aid of Nebraska – Free civil legal services for eligible low-income Nebraskans

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1. Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Nebraska County Courts: Landlord-Tenant Jurisdiction

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